What are the psychological aspects of unreliable narrators?

What are the psychological aspects of unreliable narrators?

Unreliable narrators often reflect complex psychological states, such as trauma, denial, or mental illness. They can distort reality based on their perceptions.

Can you give examples of famous unreliable narrators?

Sure! Some famous examples include Holden Caulfield from "The Catcher in the Rye" and Patrick Bateman from "American Psycho." Both characters have distorted views of reality.

How do unreliable narrators affect the reader's experience?

They create ambiguity and challenge readers to question the truth, enhancing engagement and critical thinking.

What techniques do authors use to create unreliable narrators?

Authors often use first-person perspectives, selective memory, and contradictory statements to build an unreliable narrative.

Are there psychological theories that explain why narrators might be unreliable?

Yes, theories like cognitive dissonance and the psychology of memory suggest that narrators may alter their stories to align with their beliefs or emotions.